Michigan POTA Meetup - May Newsletter
We're just one month away from our Michigan Parks on the Air Meetup on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Fort Custer State Recreation Area! As we count down the days, we wanted to share some important information to help you prepare for a successful and enjoyable experience.
Tips for Successful Group POTA Activation
Whether you're a seasoned POTA activator or joining us for your first activation, here are some key tips to ensure a smooth operation during our group event:
Antenna Spacing: Keep antennas at least 50+ feet apart when possible to minimize interference. Use natural features like trees or terrain for additional isolation.
Band Pass Filters: Consider bringing band pass filters (approximately $80 per filter) for common bands like 40m, 20m, and 15m. These devices significantly reduce interference between nearby stations.
Band Selection Strategy: Coordinate with other operators to work different bands. If popular bands like 40m and 20m are already in use, try less crowded options such as 15m or 30m.
Mode Separation: Consider using vertical antennas for digital modes and horizontal dipoles for voice to further reduce interference. 30m can be excellent for FT8/FT4 while voice operators work other bands.
Time Management: Consider operating during non-peak hours (early morning or evening) for less interference from other activations and potentially better DX opportunities.
VHF/UHF Operation: Don't forget to bring handheld radios! Working 2m and 440 provides additional operating opportunities without interfering with HF operations.
For more detailed information, visit our website's Promote page at www.michiganpotameetup.com/promote to download our complete guide: "Tips and Tricks for Group POTA Activations"
Hamvention 2025 - Connect with POTA Enthusiasts
For those attending Dayton Hamvention this month, don't miss the special Parks on the Air forums! Several Michigan POTA Meetup organizers and friends will be speaking at these sessions:
"Explore the Excitement of Parks on the Air"
Room 2, May 16, 10:20 AM - 11:20 AM
Moderator: Kevin Thomas, W1DED"Parks on the Air: The Road Ahead"
Room 2, May 16, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Speakers include Mike Case (W8MSC) and Mark Torigian (K8MST) from our organizing team!
These forums offer excellent opportunities to learn more about POTA, ask questions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. For complete forum details, visit: https://hamvention.org/event-details/forums/
Final Reminders
Location: Fort Custer State Recreation Area, Whiteford Lake Shelter
Date and Time: Saturday, June 7, 2025, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Recreation Passport: Don't forget that entry to Michigan State Parks requires a Recreation Passport
We can't wait to see you at Fort Custer next month. This casual, flexible gathering is all about connecting with fellow radio enthusiasts while enjoying Michigan's beautiful outdoors. We'll send more reminders and details as we get closer to the event.
73,
The Michigan POTA Meetup Team
Mike (W8MSC), John (NU8M), Louis (N8LEK), James (K8JKU), Mark (K8MST), Jason (KN4AL), Terry (W8TMB)
Visit our website at www.michiganpotameetup.com or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/michiganpotameetup for the latest updates.